Building Grassroots Support For Federal Legislation (On-Demand Webinar)-IHS Grassroots Advocacy Support (RECORDING)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The IHS webinar, led by Peter Mihalik, focuses on advocacy strategies to support legislation involving hearing aid specialists in VA healthcare programs. The webinar outlines communication methods with congressional offices, highlighting the importance of grassroots efforts. By sharing personal stories and using communication tools like phone calls, emails, and VoterVoice, participants can advocate effectively for the inclusion of hearing aid specialists in the VA's community care program. This legislative push aims to address current gaps where the VA has been slow to integrate these specialists despite having the authority to do so. Direct interactions with congressional staff, whether through phone calls or district meetings, are encouraged to build long-term relationships. Additionally, the webinar discusses utilizing letters to the editor and organizing advocacy days to raise awareness and emphasize the value of closer care for veterans. An upcoming voter voice campaign will further facilitate communication with key legislative committee members to push for swift action on the proposed bill, highlighting the fit-to-serve initiative for improved veteran care access.

Keywords

advocacy strategies

hearing aid specialists

VA healthcare

grassroots efforts

legislation

VoterVoice

veteran care